electric truck Archives

Electric Truck with Fuel-powered Range Extender Tested

Posted on 24 February, 202529 July, 2025 by David Priestman

DHL Group and heavy goods vehicle manufacturer Scania have jointly developed an electric truck with a fuel-powered generator, making it possible to shift to battery-electric road transport without having to wait for a complete charging network. Fully electric vehicles are the ultimate solution in a sustainable transport system, and the shift to electric needs to accelerate now. There are, however, hurdles such as the lack of charging points, the high costs of ensuring enough charging capacity at the depots during seasonal peaks, and the strain on the grid and high spot prices for electricity on for instance calm winter days. This is where DHL’s and Scania’s Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) comes into the picture. The vehicle helps to overcome these hurdles while enabling DHL to drive 80 – 90% on renewable electricity.

The new e-truck will be deployed by the Post & Parcel Germany division in February for parcel transport between Berlin and Hamburg to test its performance in day-to-day operations, before additional vehicles are added to DHL’s fleet. The fuel-powered generator replaces one of the battery packs in a fully electric truck not needed for the majority of the transport routes, thus reducing the range coming from the batteries, but providing back-up energy for the mentioned scenarios. The vehicle has a possible range of 650 to 800 kilometers (subject to the findings from the test in Berlin) and can be refueled at any conventional petrol station, if needed. This compares with the 550 kilometers of Scania’s most modern and industry-leading 100 percent electric trucks with an equivalent maximum weight.

DHL Group CEO Tobias Meyer said: “It is going to take some time before renewable electricity, the grid and charging infrastructure are available and robust enough to rely fully on battery-electric trucks, especially for a large-scale system like the German parcel network of DHL. Instead of waiting for this day to come, DHL and Scania are collaborating on a pragmatic solution for making logistics more sustainable and reduce CO2 emissions by more than 80%. This vehicle is a sensible, practical solution that can make an immediate contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in freight transport short-term. Such reductions should be proportionally reflected in the road toll pricing and EU fleet emission scheme. We see this collaboration as a successful innovation project of two companies committed to battle climate change.”

The EREV has been developed by Scania Pilot Partner, exploring new technologies and solutions, in this case together with the strategic partner DHL. Range-extended electric vehicles offer a promising interim solution for significant CO₂e reductions, especially where infrastructure and other conditions for fully electric transport are lacking. EU and national policies should recognize and incentivize this concept through adequate recognition of the realistic emission intensity in and proportional road toll reductions.

Christian Levin, CEO, Scania, said: “The future is electric, but perfect must not be the enemy of good as we are getting there. The vehicle we have developed together with DHL is an example of interim solutions that can enhance the scaling of decarbonised heavy transport before the transport system eventually becomes 100 percent electrified. An effective climate transition requires that policymakers accept such solutions, while ramping up their investments in public infrastructure and other enabling conditions.”

The EREV is a 10.5 meter long truck with a maximum weight of 40 metric tons, powered by a 230kW electric engine (295 kW peak). Energy is delivered by a 416 kWh battery and a 120 kW gasoline powered generator. With the aid of the onboard generator – initially powered by petrol and later by diesel fuel/HVO – the truck’s range extends up to 800 kilometers. EREVs can be equipped with a software limiting the usage of the fuel-powered generator, thereby allowing CO2 emissions to be reduced and limited to a specified level. Its maximum speed is 89 km/h, with a cargo capacity of approx. 1,000 parcels (volume of a swap body). The truck can also pull a trailer with an additional swap body. The vehicle is to be deployed for “main carriage” transport between the cities of Berlin and Hamburg.

Deutsche Post AG and Scania CV AB filed a patent application for the technology with the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA) in Munich on September 19, 2024.

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Biggest Electric Truck Purchase

Posted on 23 August, 202431 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Global logistics company DSV has signed an agreement with Volvo Trucks to purchase 300 electric trucks, marking one of Volvo’s largest electric vehicle orders. This move is a significant step in DSV’s strategy to reduce emissions and align with industry trends toward greener transport solutions.

Expanding Sustainable Road Freight Solutions

With a focus on sustainability, DSV aims to transition more of its fleet to electric or renewable fuel-powered vehicles. The partnership with Volvo includes plans to deploy 300 zero-emission trucks across Europe, alongside 500 fuel-efficient diesel and gas models. This mirrors industry-wide efforts, with companies like DHL and Amazon also investing in electric fleets.

Why DSV Might Have Opted for Electric Trucks

DSV’s decision to invest in electric trucks is likely driven by three key factors:

Sustainability and Compliance: Electric trucks align with DSV’s environmental goals and help meet stricter emissions regulations being introduced globally.
Long-term Cost Efficiency: While electric trucks have higher upfront costs, they offer lower operating and maintenance expenses, providing long-term financial benefits.
Customer and Market Demand: There is growing demand from clients for greener logistics solutions, making electric trucks a strategic choice to attract environmentally conscious customers and enhance DSV’s competitive edge.

Industry Collaboration for Decarbonisation

Volvo Trucks President, Roger Alm, expressed pride in strengthening the collaboration with DSV, stating, “Collaboration and a strong commitment to making a difference are crucial to realizing sustainable transport and significant CO2 reductions. This order is a testament to DSV’s confidence in our solutions and demonstrates that zero-emission transport is achievable today.”

Søren Schmidt, CEO of DSV Road, echoed these sentiments: “Close collaboration across sectors is key for DSV to be a catalyst in decarbonising the industry. Extending our partnership with Volvo supports our mission to lead the green transition in logistics and bring scalable solutions to our customers.” The collaboration is in line with efforts seen across the transportation sector, where companies are increasingly forming partnerships to leverage expertise and share the investment costs associated with transitioning to cleaner technologies.

Scaling Green Trucking Infrastructure

The fleet supplied to DSV will feature the new Volvo FH Aero Electric, designed with enhanced aerodynamics for greater energy efficiency. DSV already operates electric trucks on routes in Sweden and Denmark, where it has established charging infrastructure powered by solar panels at its distribution centres in Landskrona and Horsens. This is consistent with broader industry trends, where companies are investing in both electric vehicles and the necessary infrastructure to support widespread adoption. For example, companies like Tesla, Nikola, and Daimler are all developing electric and hydrogen-powered trucks while also working to establish charging networks.

Commitment to Climate Targets

Both DSV and Volvo are committed to science-based climate goals, with plans to significantly cut emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2050. These commitments align with global efforts by major logistics and transport companies like Maersk and DB Schenker to drive industry-wide decarbonisation.

The DSV-Volvo deal is a clear example of how leading logistics and automotive companies are driving the evolution of the transport industry toward a more sustainable and low-emission future.

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UniCarriers launches heavy-duty electric counterbalance truck

Posted on 20 August, 202129 July, 2025 by David Priestman

UniCarriers has announced the launch of their new MXL heavy-duty (4.0 – 5.5 ton) 4-wheel electric counterbalance truck, the first vehicle of its kind in the UniCarriers range: an electric forklift that’s built for the challenges of moving heavy loads in a modern freight environment. It offers its users the chance to go fully emission-free, and it’s every bit as tough, as fast and as powerful as any truck with a combustion engine. But more than that, it has unique ergonomics and comes with a lower total cost of operation than IC solutions.

With near-silent hydraulic pumps, the MXL can move heavy loads all day without the noise pollution of traditional powertrains. The loudest sound the driver will hear is the ventilation fan. And that’s not just a benefit for the driver, but for everyone else in the workplace, too. With improved cabin visibility, fully customizable controls, and better handling indoors and outside, the MXL is a performance-oriented tool for the ambitious forklift operator.

Best energy consumption in class

Electric vehicles are only as good as the battery that powers them, and here as well, the MXL offers best-in-class performance. A full charge lasts longer than a single shift, and the batteries can be charged during breaks or easily swapped out for a fully charged spare. So, whether the facility runs single, double, or triple shifts, whether the whole fleet is electric or the MXL runs alongside other drive systems, the energy source places no limitations on your workflow. For even better energy efficiency the MXL is available with high-performance Li-ION batteries to meet even the most challenging business demands.

Innovative boost functions

The motor and drive system have been engineered to impress. Automatic acceleration boost and extra torque when needed mean that electric trucks no longer need to compromise on performance, while an electric differential lock maintains perfect handling, even on slippery surfaces.

The new MXL heavy-duty electric counterbalance truck is built for the challenges of moving heavy loads in a modern freight environment and it’s good news for the bottom line, too. With lower maintenance costs and savings on energy consumption, a fleet of MXL vehicles offers a lower Total Cost of Operation than a comparable IC fleet.

Doosan Launch low-cost NXE Series Electric Forklifts

Posted on 17 November, 202029 July, 2025 by David Priestman

Doosan has launched the NXE Series – a versatile range of four-wheel electric counterbalance forklift trucks suited to the needs of the small-to-medium size enterprise (SME), or where occasional usage or light duties are the norm.

This electric equivalent of Doosan’s ‘value’ GX IC engine range, offers all the advantages of electric power in a series of competitively priced four-wheel models, giving occasional users a reliable low-cost ‘buy new’ alternative to purchasing a second-hand or reconditioned forklift truck.

Available in four models – B20NS, B25NS, B30NS and B35NS – across a capacity range from 2.0 to 3.5 tonnes, the new Doosan NXE Series is engineered to deliver high performance, reliability and safety at a reasonable cost. Productivity is maximised through the combination of a highly efficient IP67 rated Curtis AC controller, high performance motor and robust drive axle – giving optimum power and control over travel and lifting/lowering speeds.

The versatility of electric power is now available to occasional users in a durable and reliable low-cost forklift truck, making it a viable alternative to increasingly regulated IC Engine equivalents. Electric power offers clean operating performance both inside the warehouse and outside in the yard.

Safety-enhancing design features of the new Doosan NXE series include: excellent all round visibility with a clear view forward through the mast, a low front cowl to reduce blind spots and an electronic foot brake for fast, responsive braking.

Safety features include: anti-roll back on slopes, automatic speed control when cornering, automatic parking brake, ISO 3691 hydraulic locking valve – preventing unintentional lowering and tilting of the mast – and an operator sensing system that only allows the truck to operate when the driver is seated. In addition, a large anti-slip plate and entry grab bar make it easy and safe for the driver to climb on and off the vehicle.

The water and dust-proof IP67 rated Curtis AC controller protects against moisture, even when immersed to a depth of one metre, ensuring optimum power and performance throughout, with smooth and responsive travel and hydraulic operation.

Performance is further assured with the IP54 rated AC motor, offering full protection in wet weather, and the single drive axle transmits power and torque with minimal noise.

Braking is made simpler. Unlike conventional hydraulic brakes, the e-motor foot brake directly controls the power delivered to the electric motor – reducing maintenance costs.

Designed for full operator comfort, the spacious cab design offers extra knee clearance, a low step height and floor plate for easier driver access, and excellent all-round visibility for safer manoeuvring with greater awareness. Further features include, ergonomically designed hydraulic levers, with a forward and reverse switch incorporated, making changing direction smooth and effortless, and a full colour display highlights key information on the status of the truck.

The NXE Series has been designed with ease of maintenance in mind. Using a laptop key truck performance parameters can be simply adjusted – no need for special tools – and the fuse and CAN port are centralised for convenience. Access to the battery is straightforward too, with an easy-lift-up hood cylinder and tool-less removable side panel.

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